Nakamichi Dragon Performance with Type II tapes

Yeah, why not experiment with different types and brands? Just don't push the recording level too far; I use 5 for type II and 7 for type IV.
When it comes to Vertex and TDK MA-R and MA-XG it is not only the tape itself that counts, it is the anti-resonant case. It make a lot of a difference. As far as I know, the tape in TDK MA and MA-R (MA-XG) is the same.
Unlike Vertex. It is not the same tape as Maxell MX and MX-S. Though many who pay up to $100 for Vertex are collectors, some are audiophiles. I don't pay $100 a piece but for $50 I would buy a few pounds. There is a reason for that. And no there is no harshness whatsoever.

Thanks HifiHvn,Lloydc & Inna. I'm going to try the TDK MA tapes this weekend.I'm also planning on bumping up Bias levels during calibration bu about 0.5dB. Will let you know the results.

Thanks for all the great advice.

Best Regards

Livin,if I remember right,you should be able to adjust the bias while your recording,to see what sounds the best.I don't know if this is how you've been doing it,but its the best way to do it IMO.

I also seem to remember that chrome tape was more enjoyable to me also.The metal may have measured better,but did seem to have a harshness or grain about it.Specs aren't always everything.Our ears still could out do the best measuring equipment.This is just my personal experience.I think TDK was my first choice, (more cleaner,and detail),then Maxell.The SA series was good,and its too long to remember the others.

Thank you for the tip HiFiHvn, but I don't think the Dragon lets you calibrate the bias while recording is in progress. Please correct me if I'm wrong.

Best Regards